Living in Nicaragua

Nicaragua has an area of 130,000 km2 . Lake Cocibolca, also called “Nicaragua Lake”, is the most notable element in its geography, with an extension of over 8,000 km2. For detailed information please visit:

Climate and Seasons

Nicaragua’s climate is tropical. Just as in the other Central American countries, there are two seasons: dry and rainy. During the dry season (January - June), there is virtually no rain and trees and plants start to dry out. Once the rains come, around June or July, everything starts growing and the yellow plants and leafless trees turn green and start blossoming. In August and September it often rains once a day. Fortunately, it just rains for a short period of time and storms are often spectacular, tropical downpours. It rains more in the eastern part of the country than in the west.

There are three temperature zones in Nicaragua. In the lowlands (Pacific and Atlantic coast), temperatures vary roughly between 72° F at night and 86° F at daytime (22° C - 30° C). Temperatures can reach 100° F in May (38° C). The central part of the country it is about 9° F (5° C) cooler, and in the mountains in the north it is about 18° F (10° C) cooler.

Language

Spanish is the official language. In the past, nine other languages were spoken in Nicaragua. However, only seven of these are currently considered living languages and the remaining three are now considered extinct. For additional information visit http://www.nicaragua.com/languages/

Currency

Nicaragua’s currency is the córdoba. The US dollar is also accepted practically everywhere. Often prices are dollar-based, but quoted in córdobas. If you pay in dollars, you will receive your change in córdobas. Check out today’s exchange rate for the dollar here: http://www.bcn.gob.ni/estadisticas/tasas/cambio/default1.shtm

Advice for your stay in Nicaragua

ID or Passport

You should always carry your passport or ID, especially for any banking or immigration procedure. You will be asked to present this document in various occasions.

Dress According to the Regional Climate

If you visit the Pacific Region during summer, dress lightly to help cope with the hot temperatures. The average during this season is 28°-32°C. Always wear sunscreen and moisturizer to protect you from excessive heat and dry weather.

If you plan on visiting the Central or Caribbean region, do not forget hiking boots and sweaters. Temperatures tend to be lower in these regions.